Eastern Sierras

Situated on the eastern side of California, the Eastern Sierras or Sierra Nevada Mountains is a snowy mountain range that is considered to be the most diverse, longest and highest mountain range in continental United States. The Eastern Sierras have some of the most remarkable and ecologically diversified locations on Earth. Some of these attractions include the Ghost Town of Bodie, Mono Lake, the Devils Postpile National Monument, the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest and Death Valley.

The Eastern Sierras are well identified with Mt. Whitney, a 14,396-foot (4,421 m) summit located on the eastern border of Sequoia National Park. Driving on Highway 395, which runs through the California-Nevada border, provides the best glimpse of the Eastern Sierras.

The Ghost Town of Bodie is a popular location in the Eastern Sierras. Considered once as a city of sin, this town now carries the remnants of past in the form of 170 abandoned buildings. Towards south of the Ghost Town of Bodie lies the beautiful Mono Lake, whose salty waters are home to a plethora of flora and fauna including the brine shrimps and alkali flies. Sunrise over the Tufa Towers, which are calcium carbonate formations that rise from the lake waters, is a treat to watch.

Another popular destination while driving south towards California on Highway 395 is the Mammoth Mountain. The surroundings of this mountain contain myriad rivers, lakes, and springs. Mammoth Lakes located in this region is extremely popular as a ski resort. Outside the Mammoth Lakes, there is another must-see location called the Hot Creek Geological Site, which is famous for its hot springs.

Located towards the south of the Hot Creek is the precious Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest, which is home to the oldest living trees on Earth. The Great Bristlecone pine trees in this region are considered to be 1400 years older than the illustrious Sequoia Trees.